Made in Vancouver Awards: Meet Our Drinks Judge

Shiva Reddy is ready to share her fave spots in Vancouver in advance of judging the inagural MIV awards.

As “Wine Boss” at Como Taperia, Shiva Reddy curates a wild mix of sherry, bubbly and beyond—but with stints on the wine teams at Boulevard, Royal Dinette and Juniper under her belt, too, she’s no stranger to the other fine bevs being served up in this city’s restaurant scene. All of which makes her the perfect person to sip, swirl and taste her way through our Drink entries for the inaugural Made in Vancouver Awards. She’s stepped into the role of our head judge for the category, and no batch of kombucha, vial of bitters or locally brewed gin will be too much for her keenly honed palette.As we countdown to the deadline for the MIV award entries, we asked Reddy to share some of her local picks. (Photo by Jenni Baynham.)

Your go-to cocktail

Manhattan made with rye and Carpano Antica Formula Vermouth.

Favourite run at Whistler

….The Scandinave Spa.

Perfect Vancouver spot

Jericho beach.

Best place for a drink on a Tuesday night

Grapes and Soda. Grapes and Soda (Photo: Carlo Ricci.)

Most intriguing wine list in the city

Stable House.

A hidden gem more Vancouverites should know about

Their There, Ubuntu and Van Dusen Gardens.

What’s a perfect treat-yourself day?

Yoga, RMT, Seawall walk, reading, early bed time.

Perfect hangover food?

Bone broth, Greys Anatomy and bed.

Perfect big night out on the town?

Homemade dinner.

Which spa treatment is on your birthday wish list?

Ayurveda focused massage with exfoliation and a steam.

What do you think makes Vancouver’s restaurant scene standout?

The people who make it happen. The restaurant community is incredibly kind and full of personalities.

Are you a local maker with something drinkable (and Vancouver-made!) to share? Enter our Made in Vancouver Awards by February 15!